WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced it will waive day use fees normally charged at boat launch ramps and swimming beaches at its recreation areas nationwide in recognition of National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 27.

The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services or fees for specialized facilities such as group picnic shelters. Other agencies and partners that manage recreation areas located on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to comply with this waiver of day use fees in the areas they manage.

USACE also welcomes volunteers to continue the annual tradition of public service by participating in events.

Volunteers who participate in one of USACE’s in-person activities will be issued a fee-free coupon if the volunteer site is participating in the coupon program. Volunteers should check with their local USACE project for more information. The fee-free coupon is valid for one year from the date of issuance and may be used for one day of entrance or day use fees at any participating federal agency’s park, forest or recreation area that charges either of these types of fees.

Last year 4,448 volunteers served 19,244 hours on USACE-managed lands, removing 49,434 pounds of trash, cleaning 632 miles of roadways and shoreline, maintaining 77 miles of trails, planting 6,792 trees and shrubs and engaging 215 partner organizations.